Salinity-temperature relationships in the queen scallop Chalamys opercularis

The effects of reduced salinities on different size-ranges of Chlamys opercularis (L.) were studied at various temperatures using 3 methods of analysis: median lethal mortality over 24 h (LD₅₀, 24 h); surface-response analysis; time-mortality relationships. Reduced salinities ranging from 16 to 28 were lethal after a 24 h exposure, depending on the temperature and size of the scallop. Mortality increased at extremes of temperature, and spat appeared to have a slightly greater tolerance than larger individuals. Observations were also made on behavioural responses and byssus attachment at reduced salinities.